Bronze Weight-Bird

This 10 tikal weight (160 grams) is in the form of the mythical bird called a ‘hintha’ in Burma. Such weights are commonly called “opium weights”, but were actually part of a standard system of weights and measurements used for all manner of goods, and officiated by the king and government at the time. Dating probably from the second half of the19th century, this one was very likely produced by Shan metalsmiths, who were known for their fine weights. The base is hexagonal and has a star sign with 6 points; four horizontal bands encircle the base. It has some nice details: three crests on the head, markings representing feathers on the body, a V-shaped tail, nice shape, a dark silver/grey color and it shows patination on high points.This is a good authentic example of this type.